Thousands of people braved a misty morning in Cambridge to get to the starting line of the city’s iconic Chariots of Fire relay race.

Taking its name from the 1981 film, the Chariots of Fire relay saw thousands of runners set off from Queen’s Green in Cambridge before heading up Silver Street, past the historic city centre colleges and back over King’s College bridge.

This year, the race was held to raise funds for Alzheimer’s Research UK.

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Race director Charles Hewitson said: “It was a huge success. We are delighted, even though the weather was not great for setting up, it was good weather for running in. There was a great atmosphere and lots of camaraderie.”

There were around 2,500 runners at the race, and Charles said that he hoped to see a large total raised for Alzheimer’s Research UK once the sponsorship money was in.

Britain’s Got Talent semi-finalist Harry Gardner was there to play the piano as racers tore out of the blocks. He played his song “not Alone” which he wrote for his grandmother who suffered with Alzheimer’s before her death.

Harry said: “I am here to support Alzheimer’s Research UK. I am going to be performing my song. I think a lot of people will be able to relate to it, and I want to do everything I can to help.

“I am wishing everyone lots of luck. It is for a great cause.”

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